Long Hair Sausage Dog Puppy: Complete Week-by-Week Care Guide
Your complete guide to raising a long hair sausage dog puppy — week-by-week milestones, feeding schedules, potty training, vaccinations, and first-year costs.
Bringing Home Your Long Hair Sausage Dog Puppy: What to Expect
The long-coated Dachshund — affectionately called a "long hair sausage dog" by devoted owners — is one of the most striking varieties of this iconic German breed. With their flowing, silky coats, feathered ears, and that unmistakable low-slung silhouette, long-haired Dachshund puppies are irresistible. But beneath that elegant exterior lies a bold, intelligent, and sometimes stubborn hound that requires thoughtful, breed-specific care from day one.
This guide walks you through every critical stage of your long hair sausage dog puppy's first year, with exact timelines, feeding portions, training protocols, and cost expectations tailored specifically to the miniature and standard long-haired Dachshund. Whether you're picking up your pup from a responsible breeder or bringing home a rescue, you'll find the concrete details you need to raise a healthy, well-adjusted companion.
When Should You Bring Your Long Hair Sausage Dog Puppy Home?
The American Kennel Club and most veterinary behaviorists agree: 8 to 10 weeks is the ideal window to bring a long-haired Dachshund puppy home. Here's why timing matters for this specific breed:
- Before 8 weeks: Puppies are still learning bite inhibition and social cues from littermates. Dachshunds removed too early tend toward higher rates of resource guarding and fear-based reactivity — traits that are harder to modify in a breed already known for strong opinions.
- 8–10 weeks: The puppy has received initial maternal antibodies, learned foundational canine communication, and is entering the peak socialization window. This is the sweet spot.
- After 12 weeks: Still fine, but you'll need to accelerate socialization efforts since the critical period (3–14 weeks) is partially closed. Puppies kept by responsible breeders to 12 weeks often benefit from early structured exposure programs.
Long-haired Dachshunds specifically may stay with breeders until 10–12 weeks more often than smooth-coated varieties. Reputable breeders sometimes hold them longer to assess coat quality, ear set, and early temperament — this is a sign of a thoughtful program, not a red flag.
Age-Specific Milestones: Your Puppy's First Year Timeline
Long-haired Dachshund puppies develop on a predictable schedule, but their small size means certain milestones hit differently than in larger breeds. Here's what to expect at each stage:
Weeks 4–8 (Pre-Adoption / Breeder Phase)
- Weight: 1.0–2.5 lb (0.45–1.1 kg) depending on miniature vs. standard lineage
- Development: Eyes and ears fully open, deciduous (baby) teeth erupting, beginning to eat gruel/moistened kibble
- Behavior: Littermate play intensifies, bite inhibition learning begins, first signs of the Dachshund "digging" instinct may appear in whelping box bedding
- Coat: Long-haired pups start showing feathering on ears and slight waviness — but full coat length won't be apparent until 6+ months
- What the breeder should be doing: Early neurological stimulation (ENS), introduction to varied surfaces, first deworming at 2, 4, and 6 weeks, initial DHPP vaccine at 6–8 weeks
Weeks 8–12 (Home Transition)
- Weight: 2–4 lb (0.9–1.8 kg) for miniatures; 3–5 lb (1.4–2.3 kg) for standards
- Development: Rapid brain development, peak socialization sensitivity, bladder control is minimal (30–60 minutes max between outings)
- Behavior: Fear periods may begin around 8–10 weeks — your pup may suddenly seem startled by objects they previously ignored. This is normal. Never force exposure; let them approach at their own pace.
- Sleep: Expect 18–20 hours of sleep per day. Enforce naps in the crate to prevent overtiredness, which triggers biting and whining spirals.
- Key action: Begin crate training, establish potty routine, introduce collar/harness (use a harness only — never attach a leash to a collar on a Dachshund due to IVDD risk)
Weeks 12–16 (Foundation Training)
- Weight: 4–7 lb (1.8–3.2 kg) miniatures; 5–9 lb (2.3–4.1 kg) standards
- Development: Baby teeth begin loosening, attention span increases to 5–10 minutes, second fear period may hit around 12 weeks
- Behavior: Testing boundaries — expect selective hearing, increased mouthing, and the beginning of "Dachshund stubbornness" during training sessions
- Key action: Formalize name recognition, sit, and recall. Keep sessions to 3–5 minutes, 2–3 times daily. Use high-value treats (boiled chicken, freeze-dried liver).
Weeks 16–24 (Teething & Adolescence)
- Weight: 6–10 lb (2.7–4.5 kg) miniatures approaching adult size; 8–14 lb (3.6–6.4 kg) standards
- Development: Adult teeth erupting, long coat begins to lengthen noticeably on ears, chest, and tail feathering
- Behavior: Increased independence, may regress on previously learned commands, heightened prey drive as hunting instincts mature
- Key action: Maintain training consistency, increase mental enrichment (snuffle mats, frozen Kongs), begin grooming habituation with a slicker brush and metal comb
Months 6–12 (Young Adult Transition)
- Weight: Miniatures reach 8–11 lb (3.6–5.0 kg); Standards reach 16–22 lb (7.3–10.0 kg) per AKC breed standard
- Development: Growth plates closing, long coat reaching near-adult length (full coat may take 18–24 months), spay/neuter typically performed around 6–9 months
- Behavior: Energy begins to level out, but Dachshunds remain playful and alert throughout life. Adolescence is when separation anxiety can surface if the dog hasn't learned independent confidence.
- Key action: Transition to adult food around 10–12 months (Dachshunds mature slower than some breeds), schedule spay/neuter discussion with your vet, establish regular grooming schedule (every 6–8 weeks professional or home maintenance)
Feeding Schedule: Exact Portions by Age and Weight
Long-haired Dachshunds are prone to obesity, which directly increases the risk of intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) — the breed's most serious health concern. Precise feeding matters more here than in many breeds.
| Age | Meals Per Day | Miniature (Daily Amount) | Standard (Daily Amount) | Food Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8–12 weeks | 3–4 meals | ¼–⅓ cup (kibble, moistened) | ⅓–½ cup (kibble, moistened) | Puppy-specific, small-breed formula (AAFCO growth statement) |
| 12–16 weeks | 3 meals | ⅓–½ cup | ½–¾ cup | Puppy kibble, transition to dry |
| 4–6 months | 2–3 meals | ½–⅔ cup | ¾–1 cup | Puppy formula, small-breed kibble size |
| 6–10 months | 2 meals | ½–⅔ cup | 1–1¼ cups | Transition to adult formula around 10 months |
| 10–12 months | 2 meals | ⅓–½ cup adult food | ¾–1 cup adult food | Adult maintenance, calorie-controlled |
Brand recommendations for small-breed Dachshund puppies: Look for formulas with a named animal protein as the first ingredient, DHA for brain development, and calcium-phosphorus ratios appropriate for small breeds. Brands that meet these criteria include Royal Canin Dachshund Puppy, Hill's Science Diet Small Paws Puppy, and Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Puppy. Always verify the AAFCO statement on the bag confirms "complete and balanced for growth."
Treats should not exceed 10% of daily caloric intake. For a miniature Dachshund puppy eating ~200 calories/day, that means no more than 20 calories in treats — roughly 2–3 small training treats per session.
Vaccination Schedule for Your Long Hair Sausage Dog Puppy
Dachshund puppies follow the standard American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) core vaccination protocol, with some breed-specific considerations:
| Age | Vaccine | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus) | Core | Usually given by breeder before pickup |
| 10–12 weeks | DHPP booster + Bordetella (optional) | Core + Lifestyle | Bordetella recommended if attending puppy classes |
| 14–16 weeks | DHPP final booster + Rabies | Core | Rabies required by law in most US states |
| 12–16 weeks | Leptospirosis (2-dose series) | Lifestyle | Recommended for Dachshunds — their hunting heritage puts them in contact with wildlife/standing water |
| 6 months | Heartworm prevention (monthly) | Preventive | Start by 8 weeks per vet guidance; year-round in most US regions |
The Critical Socialization Window: Weeks 3–14
Long-haired Dachshunds are naturally more reserved with strangers than their smooth-coated counterparts — a temperament trait documented in breed surveys. This makes deliberate socialization during the 3–14 week window absolutely essential. Miss this window, and you're far more likely to end up with a dog that barks excessively at visitors, reacts fearfully to handling, or shows aggression toward unfamiliar dogs.
Your Long-Haired Dachshund Puppy Socialization Checklist
People Exposure (aim for 10+ different people by week 14):
- ☐ Men with beards and/or hats
- ☐ Children of various ages (supervised, calm interactions only)
- ☐ People wearing sunglasses, hoodies, or carrying umbrellas
- ☐ People of different heights, body types, and ethnicities
- ☐ A person in a wheelchair or using crutches
- ☐ A veterinarian and veterinary staff (schedule a "happy visit" — no shots, just treats and handling)
Surface & Environment Exposure:
- ☐ Grass, gravel, sand, metal grates, wet pavement
- ☐ Car rides (start with 5-minute trips, build to 20+ minutes)
- ☐ Elevators, automatic doors, revolving doors (carry puppy if needed)
- ☐ Stairs (assist — Dachshund puppies should NOT navigate full staircases independently due to spinal stress)
- ☐ Bathtub/shallow water exposure (critical for long-haired variety who will need regular bathing)
Sound Desensitization (play recordings at low volume, gradually increase):
- ☐ Thunderstorms, fireworks, doorbells, vacuum cleaners
- ☐ City traffic sounds, construction noise
- ☐ Other dogs barking
Animal Exposure:
- ☐ Calm, vaccinated adult dogs (2–3 positive encounters per week)
- ☐ Cats (if applicable to your household)
- ☐ Observe livestock or wildlife from a safe distance (triggers prey drive awareness)
Handling Exercises (daily, 2–3 minutes):
- ☐ Paw handling (prepares for nail trims)
- ☐ Ear touching and gentle inspection (essential for long-haired variety — ear infections are common)
- ☐ Mouth opening and teeth inspection
- ☐ Belly rubs and being turned on their back (builds trust for grooming)
- ☐ Brush introduction — soft brush, 30 seconds, pair with treats
Rule of thumb: Every positive experience should end before your puppy shows stress. If they tuck their tail, freeze, or try to hide, increase distance from the stimulus and let them observe from afar. Never force interaction.
Potty Training Timeline and Troubleshooting
Dachshunds are notoriously harder to house-train than many breeds. Their small bladders, combined with a stubborn streak and a dislike of going outside in cold or wet weather (especially relevant for long-coated dogs who get their belly fur muddy), means realistic timelines matter.
Realistic Potty Training Expectations
| Age | Bladder Capacity | Outing Frequency | Accident Expectation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8–10 weeks | 30–45 minutes | Every 30 min while awake + after every meal, nap, play session | Multiple accidents daily — completely normal |
| 10–14 weeks | 1–1.5 hours | Every 45–60 minutes + scheduled post-activity outings | 1–3 accidents per week if consistent |
| 3–4 months | 2–3 hours | Every 1.5–2 hours during the day | Rare accidents; beginning to signal (sniffing, circling) |
| 4–6 months | 3–4 hours | Every 2–3 hours + overnight (may still need 1 night outing) | Mostly reliable with occasional regression |
| 6–9 months | 4–6 hours | Every 3–4 hours during the day | Should be mostly reliable; adolescent regression possible |
Long-Haired Dachshund Potty Training Troubleshooting
Problem: Puppy refuses to go outside in rain or cold.
This is extremely common in long-coated Dachshunds. Solutions: Use a covered patio or porch area, invest in a puppy raincoat (yes, they exist for Dachshunds — look for brands like Hurtta or Kurgo sized for long bodies), or designate a sheltered spot. Wipe belly and leg feathering dry immediately after outdoor potty trips.
Problem: Puppy pees in the crate.
If the crate is too large, the puppy will use one corner as a bathroom. Use a divider panel to size the crate so your puppy can stand, turn around, and lie down — nothing more. If accidents persist despite correct sizing, rule out a urinary tract infection with your vet.
Problem: Puppy only goes on pee pads, won't transition outside.
If you started with pads, begin moving them incrementally closer to the door each day, then just outside the door, then to the final outdoor spot. Fade pad use over 2–3 weeks. Some long-haired Dachshund owners keep an indoor grass patch for weather emergencies — this is acceptable if consistently placed.
Teething Timeline and Relief Strategies
Your long hair sausage dog puppy will go through two dentition phases:
- Deciduous (baby) teeth: Emerge at 3–6 weeks, 28 teeth total
- Adult teeth: Begin erupting around 12–16 weeks, process largely complete by 6–7 months, 42 teeth total
During the 3–6 month teething window, expect increased chewing, mild gum bleeding (pink tinge on chew toys is normal), temporary appetite reduction, and occasional "puppy breath" odor. Here's how to manage it safely:
Safe Chew Recommendations for Dachshund Puppies
- Kong Classic (size XS or S for miniatures): Stuff with plain pumpkin puree or soaked kibble and freeze. Provides 15–20 minutes of soothing relief.
- Nylabone Puppy Chew ( Petite or Small): Designed for developing teeth — softer than adult versions. Discard when worn down to a small piece.
- Frozen washcloth: Wet a clean washcloth, twist into a rope, freeze for 2 hours. Supervise use — remove if puppy tears off fabric pieces.
- Benebone Puppy (Small): The wishbone shape works well for Dachshund jaws. Choose the puppy-specific version.
Crate Training Progression and Time Limits
Crate training serves multiple purposes for your long-haired Dachshund puppy: it aids potty training, prevents destructive chewing when unsupervised, and provides a safe den that reduces anxiety. Because Dachshunds are burrowing dogs by instinct, most take to crates readily — if introduced correctly.
| Age | Maximum Crate Time (Daytime) | Overnight Expectation | Recommended Crate Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8–10 weeks | 30–60 minutes max | Will need 1–2 potty breaks overnight | Small wire or plastic crate (18–22"L) with divider |
| 10–14 weeks | 1–2 hours max | 1 overnight break, possibly sleeping 4–5 hour stretches | Same crate, adjust divider as puppy grows |
| 3–4 months | 2–3 hours max | May sleep 5–6 hours overnight | 24" crate for miniatures; 30" for standards |
| 4–6 months | 3–4 hours max | 6–7 hours overnight possible | Final adult size crate |
| 6+ months | 4–5 hours max (not daily routine) | 7–8 hours overnight | Adult crate — Dachshunds prefer snug, den-like spaces |
Crate training steps for Dachshund puppies:
- Place the crate in a common area with the door open. Toss high-value treats inside. Let puppy enter and exit freely for 2–3 days.
- Feed all meals inside the crate with the door open, then closed briefly during eating.
- Close the door for 5 minutes while you sit nearby. Gradually increase to 15, then 30 minutes.
- Leave the room for short periods (5 minutes, then 10, then 20). Return before puppy becomes distressed.
- Never use the crate as punishment. If your puppy whines after being settled for a while, take them out to potty, then return to crate — this teaches that whining leads to a bathroom break, not freedom.
Common Puppy Problems: Breed-Specific Solutions
Biting and Nipping
Dachshund puppies were bred to grab and hold prey in burrows — mouthing is deeply ingrained. Your long hair sausage dog puppy will likely nip at hands, ankles, and clothing with more intensity than some breeds.
Solution protocol:
- Redirect: The instant teeth touch skin, say "ouch" in a calm, flat tone (not high-pitched, which can excite them further), then offer a chew toy. Praise enthusiastically when they chew the toy.
- Time-out: If redirecting fails after 2 attempts, calmly pick up the puppy and place them in a playpen or crate for 30–60 seconds. This teaches that biting ends play — not with anger, but with a boring consequence.
- Prevent rehearsal: Keep a soft toy nearby during all handling sessions. Give the puppy something appropriate to mouth before they seek out your fingers.
- Enforce naps: Overtired puppies bite more. If nipping escalates despite redirection, your puppy likely needs a nap, not more training.
Whining and Crying (Especially at Night)
Long-haired Dachshunds tend to form intense bonds with their people and may vocalize distress more than independent breeds. Nighttime whining in the first 1–2 weeks home is expected.
Solution protocol:
- Place the crate near your bed for the first 2 weeks so the puppy can hear and smell you.
- Use a Snuggle Puppy (a plush toy with a heartbeat simulator and heat pack) — this product has strong anecdotal support from Dachshund breeders.
- If puppy whines after 2+ hours in the crate at night, take them out silently on leash to potty, then return to crate. No talking, no play, no eye contact.
- Gradually move the crate to its permanent location over 1–2 weeks (move it 2–3 feet each night).
Destructive Chewing
Dachshund puppies explore the world with their mouths, and their strong jaws can do surprising damage to shoes, baseboards, and furniture legs.
Solution protocol:
- Manage the environment: Use baby gates to restrict access to puppy-proofed areas only. Pick up shoes, remote controls, and anything at puppy-mouth height.
- Provide 4–5 approved chew options of varying textures (rubber, nylon, frozen fabric).
- Rotate chews every 2–3 days to maintain novelty.
- Apply bitter apple spray to furniture legs and baseboards as a deterrent — test on a hidden area first for staining.
First-Year Cost Breakdown for a Long Hair Sausage Dog Puppy
Budgeting accurately prevents surprises. Here's a realistic first-year cost breakdown for a long-haired Dachshund in the US (2026 estimates):
| Category | Low Estimate | Mid Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puppy purchase (responsible breeder) | $2,000 | $3,000 | $4,500 |
| Initial vet visits (3 puppy exams + vaccines) | $300 | $500 | $750 |
| Spay/neuter | $300 | $500 | $800 |
| Food (12 months, quality small-breed formula) | $250 | $400 | $600 |
| Supplies (crate, harness, leash, bowls, bed, gates) | $200 | $350 | $500 |
| Grooming (long coat requires regular maintenance) | $0 (home grooming) | $360 ($60 × 6 visits) | $600 ($75 × 8 visits) |
| Training (group puppy class + private sessions if needed) | $150 | $350 | $800 |
| Preventive medications (heartworm, flea/tick — 12 months) | $150 | $250 | $400 |
| Pet insurance (optional but recommended for IVDD risk) | $360 ($30/mo) | $540 ($45/mo) | $720 ($60/mo) |
| TOTAL FIRST YEAR | $3,710 | $6,250 | $9,670 |
Why pet insurance is strongly recommended for Dachshunds: IVDD surgery costs $3,000–$8,000 per episode, and approximately 25% of Dachshunds will experience some degree of disc disease in their lifetime. A policy that covers hereditary conditions, purchased before any symptoms appear, can be financially transformative. Look for providers that don't exclude IVDD as a breed-specific condition (some cheaper plans do — read the fine print).
Frequently Asked Questions
When can my long hair sausage dog puppy go outside and meet other dogs?
Your puppy can go outside in your own yard (carried or on a harness) immediately after coming home. However, avoid public dog areas (dog parks, pet store floors, off-leash areas) until 7 days after the final DHPP booster at 14–16 weeks. During the pre-vaccination window, you can socialize your puppy with known, fully vaccinated dogs in private yards or homes. Puppy kindergarten classes that require proof of at least one DHPP vaccine and maintain sanitized facilities are generally considered safe by veterinary behaviorists — the socialization benefit outweighs the minimal disease risk in controlled environments.
How often should I feed my 10-week-old long hair sausage dog puppy?
At 10 weeks, feed 3–4 meals per day at consistent intervals. For a miniature Dachshund puppy weighing approximately 2–3 lb (0.9–1.4 kg), this means roughly 1–1.5 tablespoons of high-quality small-breed puppy kibble per meal (totaling ¼–⅓ cup daily). Space meals approximately 4–5 hours apart during waking hours. Always provide fresh water and remove uneaten food after 15–20 minutes to establish meal-time habits rather than free-feeding.
When will my long hair sausage dog puppy be fully potty trained?
Realistically, most long-haired Dachshund puppies achieve reliable house training between 5 and 8 months of age, though some individuals take until 9–12 months. This is longer than many breeds, and it's not a reflection of your training quality — it's a breed trait related to small bladder capacity and stubbornness. Consistency is the single biggest factor: puppies taken out on a rigid schedule with enthusiastic praise for outdoor elimination reach reliability faster. Expect occasional setbacks during adolescence (around 6–8 months) — this is normal and temporary if you maintain your routine.
How do I stop my long hair sausage dog puppy from biting my hands?
Use a consistent three-step approach: (1) The moment teeth contact skin, say "ouch" in a calm, neutral tone and immediately withdraw your hand — no pulling away dramatically, which can trigger prey drive. (2) Offer an appropriate chew toy within 2 seconds. (3) If the puppy bites again within 30 seconds, calmly place them in a playpen for a 30-second time-out, then release and try again. Most Dachshund puppies show significant improvement within 2–3 weeks of consistent application. Never hit, hold the muzzle shut, or use alpha rolls — these methods increase fear and aggression in this sensitive breed.
What is the best harness for a long hair sausage dog puppy?
Because Dachshunds are predisposed to intervertebral disc disease, a well-fitted harness is non-negotiable — never attach a leash directly to a collar, which puts pressure on the neck and spine. Look for a harness that distributes pressure across the chest and has a back-clip attachment. Popular options that fit the Dachshund's long body include the Ruffwear Web Master (size XXS/XS for miniatures), the Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Harness, and the Julius Power Harness (used by many Dachshund breeders). Measure your puppy's girth at the widest point of the ribcage and check fit weekly as they grow — you should be able to slide two fingers under all straps.
When should I start grooming my long-haired Dachshund puppy?
Begin grooming habituation the day you bring your puppy home — not with a full groom, but with gentle, 1–2 minute sessions using a soft-bristle brush, paired with treats. By 12 weeks, introduce a slicker brush and metal comb for the ear feathering and leg furnishings. Full grooming sessions (brushing, ear cleaning, nail trimming) should be established by 4–5 months. Long-haired Dachshunds need brushing 2–3 times per week to prevent mats behind the ears, under the armpits, and in the "skirt" along the belly. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks is recommended for sanitary trims and ear hair plucking if your groomer advises it.
Quick Reference: Your Long Hair Sausage Dog Puppy Essentials Checklist
- ☐ Small-breed puppy food with AAFCO growth statement
- ☐ Wire or plastic crate (18–24" with divider panel)
- ☐ Back-clip harness sized for long bodies
- ☐ 4–6 foot leash (no retractable leashes — they encourage pulling)
- ☐ Enzymatic cleaner for accidents (Nature's Miracle or Rocco & Roxie)
- ☐ Slicker brush + metal comb for long coat
- ☐ 3–4 safe chew toys of varying textures
- ☐ Baby gates for room management
- ☐ Snuggle Puppy or heartbeat toy for crate comfort
- ☐ Veterinary appointment scheduled within 48 hours of pickup
Jonas Cole
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
